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Featured Member:
Caitlin Parker
CAITLIN PARKER | Assistant Editor / Motion Graphics Artist
How many years have you spent studying and/or working in the Vancouver Post Production industry?
I’ve spent approximately 2-3 years working in various roles within the post-production industry. I’ve worked as an Assistant Editor in the unscripted world and on numerous projects as a freelance video editor and motion graphics artist. Currently, I work as a VFX Production Coordinator while seeking my next editing opportunity.
What is your favourite project that you’ve worked on, and why?
Currently, my favourite project that I’ve worked on is a documentary I produced, directed, and edited with my partner, titled “The Faces of Vancouver.” It’s an anthology of female immigrant stories featuring my mother, my best friend and her mother, and another friend who was new to Canada during the time of production. I created this documentary to explore the backgrounds of the people I love and why they chose Vancouver as their home.
Where/How did you get your start in the community?
I began my journey in the community as an assistant editor at Great Pacific Media. It was my first job after graduating from film school. I was eager to find work and connect with people on LinkedIn, and fortunately, I connected with the right person at the right time. I’m extremely grateful for the opportunity. After my 6-month contract, I did freelance work for about four months before transitioning to a role in VFX as a production assistant, and now as a production coordinator.
What do you see as the biggest asset to your sector, relative to the industry in Vancouver
In my opinion, the post-production sector offers more flexibility compared to other areas of the industry. You can work as an editor, post-production coordinator, post supervisor, animator, VFX artist, VFX production assistant, coordinator, and more. Post-production seems to provide a greater variety of roles compared to on-set positions like a camera operator. My limited experience in other areas prevents me from providing an extensive comparison, but I believe post-production is known for its flexibility and stability, with transferable skills for other roles.
Why did you join the VPA?
I joined the VPA to find support as someone who’s just starting out. I often feel lost and isolated because I don’t have many connections in the industry. At first, I hesitated to join the VPA, concerned that it might be a cash-grab, but during my short time as a VPA member, I’ve already gained valuable knowledge and support. Although I haven’t found work yet, I feel less anxious and more confident in my journey.
What do you see as the biggest hurdle for your sector, relative to the industry in Vancouver?
Networking stands out as the most significant hurdle in my sector and in this industry in general. I’ve constantly heard that you need to network in order to secure work. Post-production has become increasingly popular, not only in scripted or unscripted content but also in social media. This growing popularity and the flexibility of post-production make it an even more competitive field. Luck and timing seem to play significant roles in the industry, which was the case when I first started. The close-knit nature of this community can sometimes be intimidating, as it may leave you uncertain about how to become a part of it or find your way in.
Who was/is your mentor/inspiration/idol?
Michael Jackson has been a significant source of inspiration for me. His music inspires me to always strive for excellence in everything I do and to see the good in others. I aim to positively impact those around me through my art and hopefully become someone’s role model someday. I recall watching an interview Michael did in the early 2000s where he said, “Study the greats and become greater…Innovate. Be a pioneer. Believe in yourself.” He then proceeded to elaborate that many of the most influential figures who have shaped our culture began their journeys struggling on their own and facing incredible challenges, and that no matter your circumstances, if you believe in yourself, you WILL achieve your goals.
In one sentence, what advice do you wish someone had given you five years ago, relative to your career today?
Believe that you WILL succeed and CAN achieve anything that you set your mind to—just keep moving forward; have patience. And you can’t predict the future, but you can shape what happens next.
What is your favourite pastime outside of work?
My favourite pastime outside of work is playing guitar and singing. While I might not be the best at guitar and I’m a bit shy in the spotlight, I aspire to start my own band one day. I also have a keen interest in beauty and fashion. I love exploring how societal perceptions based on appearance and the influence of culture and social media shape today’s beauty standards.
My personal tag line is…
I’m an experienced video editor and motion graphics artist with a track record of contributing to successful TV shows and VFX projects, driven by my passion for storytelling and aspiration to excel in the world of post-production.